“The Little Station That Could”

WCTE has served the Upper Cumberland for more than 39 years as the regions premier storyteller and is the only television station in a 75-mile radius of Cookeville, TN, making it a strategic partner with education, health services, government, arts and music. WCTE is owned and operated by the Upper Cumberland Broadcast Council and is one of only 350 PBS affiliates nationwide.

WCTE’s Annual Dinner is a fundraising event that celebrates the station’s accomplishments of the past year, and recognizes individuals who contribute to the success and enrichment of the Upper Cumberland.

Stories told and information given about how WCTE came to be. A Tribute of the Castle family and their hard work, especially with the Great TV Auction. The huge effort of the whole crew of camera operators, reporters, and host for the Smithville Jamboree. A slide show was presented to show how Becky Magura, WCTE President & CEO along with Steve Boots, Master of Ceremonies, began as interns from TTU. A very emotional evening for reminiscing how it all came to be. With all the work and dedicated supporters WCTE became “The Little Station That Could.”

The keynote speaker was Paula Kerger, President and CEO of PBS, the nation’s largest non-commercial media organization with nearly 350 member stations. Ms. Kerger sang wonderful praises for WCTE and it’s staff.

WCTE recognized the following for their outstanding dedication and hard work this year:

Maker’s Award: Lillian Hartgrove

Volunteer of the Year: Nina Lunn

Joe Albrecht Community Impact Award (First Annual): Ken Hunter

The Sheep Dog Award: Cindy Puckett

Jere Hargrove was also recognized for his years of service as a retiring member of the Board of Directions.